Exhibition: Wordless Manuscript from Heaven
Miao Embroidery and Batik
The Miao, also known as the Hmong, are an indigenous ethnic group characterised by their distinct traditions, customs, and craftsmanship. Their cultural legacy has been intricately woven into the fabric of their daily lives.
Throughout the ages, storytelling has been a vital part of human culture, passing down knowledge, traditions, and memories from one generation to the next. For the Miao people, whose written language is absent, their epic migration and remarkable heritage are meticulously recorded on fabric, thread by thread. Each embroidered motif and batik pattern is a testament to the collective memory and enduring spirit that has guided them through centuries.
Patterns on their fabrics such as the Taichi fish and butterfly mother reflect the Miao’s perspective on the universe and tell an epic story of migration.
Embroidery
Hundred-bird Coat
The Gu(drum)zang festival is a grand ceremony held by the Miao ethnic people to worship their ancestors. According to legend, the butterfly mother was born from a maple tree, and that is why the Miao people worship it. Since their ancestors' original home resides within the heart of the maple tree, wooden drums made from maple have become the sacred place for their ancestors' rest. As a result, ancestral worship has transformed into drum worship. Miao people wear the "hundred-bird coat" during Guzang festival.
Embroidery Pieces
Fern Patterns
“Miao embroidery has many fern patterns. I was told by the elders that they dug the fern on the way when they were starving. Miao people also used fern roots to mix with rice cake.” (Yu Guomin from Miao minority group)
Horse Feet Patterns
Horses used to be an important means of
transportation during migration.
Costume for daily
Miao Batik
Local market (181cm*82cm)
The Story of Butterfly’s Mother
The butterflies are said to be born from maple trees and have a romantic encounter with water bubbles, resulting in 12 eggs. After their incubation, the eggs hatch and bring the world into existence, alongside the goddess Jiangyang, who became the ancestor of the Miao ethnic group. This ancient legend has been passed down for thousands of years in Miao settlement areas.
